Abstract:
This study documents the life stories of Filipinas in interracial marriages. It involves an
in-depth and comprehensive analysis of their experiences, perceptions and situations. In
particular, this study seeks to explore their diverse experiences in their marriage and their
motivations for entering an interracial relationship.
The narrative research design was used in the study to obtain their life stories through life
story telling which allowed participants to contribute as much information as they want. An indepth,
semi-structured interview was also used to enable the researcher to probe on their
responses to ensure that all objectives were satisfied.
There were 7 participants who shared their life stories to provide a deeper understanding of
the experiences of Filipinas in interracial marriages. The study concluded that the perceptions and
experiences of Filipinas in Interracial marriages are diverse and highly influenced by their specific
situations. Their individual perceptions (personal goals & ideal partner), social conditions (migration,
modernization & stigmatization) and cultural influences (family approval & cultural adjustments) affect
the quality and success of an interracial marriage.These three factors interact in order to make the
relationship work. The study also found that there are numerous interconnected factors (personal, social,
cultural) that have influenced these Filipina women in their decision to marry outside of their own race.
Although certain patterns arise in their responses, no single explanation regarding their motivation for
entering an interracial marriage would be universally applicable to all situations.
Furthermore the study reveals that there are both positive and negative sides to interracial
marriages. Although there has been a greater acceptance of Interracial marriages in society,
stigmatization and negative stereotypes towards Filipinas married to foreigners still exist in
present Philippine society.
